UNDP extends solidarity to flood-hit Brazil

Jan 18, 2011

UNDP Administrator Helen Clark sent a letter of solidarity to President Dilma Rousseff and reiterated commitment to support the country

The United Nations extends solidarity to the Brazilian government, local authorities and civil society organizations in their efforts to cope with the tragedy caused recently by violent floods, especially the mudslides that devastated hillside communities in the state of Rio de Janeiro.

The United Nations congratulates the Brazilian government for creating the National System for Natural Disasters Prevention and Early Warnings and recognizes the country’s capacities to address this challenge.

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said on Monday he considers the tragedy a “large-scale disaster” and is “extremely concerned” about the situation, adding that the United Nations is prepared to assist upon the request of the Brazilian government. Secretary-General Ban further expressed his sadness, and said he was mourning the loss of lives.

Since the early unfolding of this tragedy, the UN Office for Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) as part of its mandate has mobilized efforts to eventually support the government of Brazil and to strengthen the long-term capabilities of the UN system in Brazil to respond, prevent and manage disaster risks.

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Administrator Helen Clark sent a letter of solidarity on 13 January to President Dilma Rousseff of Brazil.

“In this hour of sorrow, I send a special message of solidarity to the Brazilian people and my sincerest condolences to the families of the victims,” Administrator Clark said.

In the document, Administrator Clark also reiterated the commitment of the United Nations “to support Brazil during this emergency, and to assist you in the process of recovery and reconstruction of affected areas.”